Globally mobile staff wellbeing worse – research

Globally mobile individuals are less happy about their personal health and wellbeing than the general working population, with almost a quarter suffer from loneliness, according to new research from Cigna.

The research found over two thirds of globally mobile individuals – 72 per cent – are unhappy with the amount of time available to spend with family, while 24 per cent who are single or living alone suffer from loneliness.

Over three quarters – 76 per cent – reported they cannot adequately take care of their children’s various needs and wellbeing, while worries about their dependents’ education is intensified by the lack of a family support network.

Less than half of employees felt

Just 42 per cent of globally mobile individuals felt their employer dealt with their “duty of care” towards themadequately, with 40 per cent not in receipt of any medical benefits by their company. All globally mobile individuals worried about illness, with cancer and the fear of accidents the main triggers, followed by mental illness, including depression.

Cigna Europe CEO Phil Austen says: “Whilst working overseas has its benefits, the reality of life in a new country can be an emotional upheaval.

“Working practices are different, not to mention the cultural, lifestyle and language changes, which can make coping with life’s challenges more difficult.

“Our findings show a deep insecurity about family health and wellbeing, coupled with social isolation and increasing loneliness, which is exacerbated by the loss of a support network. It’s imperative that employers pay attention to the needs of their globally mobile employees and, as a health partner, we remain committed as ever in delivering solutions to tackle this.”